subject: Why Should I Do Yoga – I Already Exercise [print this page] Why Should I Do Yoga I Already Exercise Why Should I Do Yoga I Already Exercise
Many people have the false impression that yoga is just another exercise. While it is true that yoga can include exercise, it actually is a science. Yoga is a science of feeling better about yourself, a science of living a fuller life, a science of becoming more enlightened.
One of the main reasons we consider yoga exercise is the prevalence of "gym yoga" classes. They are offering a type of exercise that may loosely be called yoga. They promise a "yoga butt" or "strong core". While these can result from a yoga practice, they are far from the intention one ought to set when beginning a yoga practice.
Let's start with "yoga is a science of feeling better about yourself". One of the lessons you learn in a yoga class is to accept your body just as it is, in this very moment. It is useless to look back at what you were able to accomplish in the past, and unnecessary to dream about what you might be able to do in the future. What you need to concentrate on is how to best perform the yoga pose with the body you have today. When you meet your body where it is at when you step on your mat, you begin to accept yourself just as you are. You know that you are a wonderful being, capable of more than you ever dreamed possible.
"Yoga is a science of living a fuller life". When you begin to let go of unreasonable expectations and begin to set reasonable goals filled with intention, you begin to find satisfaction with your life. Instead of reaching for more things you do not really need, you can find enjoyment in the feeling of the sun on your face, the smell of a flower, the scent of the rain on the breeze. All of these joys are there for us to enjoy, but too often we are so busy pursuing more money for more things that we fail to notice them. Learning to be present in the moment allows you to become aware of the little things that make life full of enjoyment.
"Yoga is a science of becoming more enlightened". Part of a complete yoga practice is the ability to truly look inside yourself. It is learning how to be aware of your thoughts and motivations. It is asking yourself if you really need that thing you are longing for, or if you just think that you need it. You really don't have to give up all of your worldly possessions and sit in a cave to become more enlightened. You do need to analyze your thoughts. You do need to question your motivations. Once you can be aware of your thoughts and motivations, you begin to shift your thinking and look at what is really important in life, rather than the things you think you need.
Can a yoga practice also help you become physically fit? Certainly! The physical poses can help you build strength, stamina and flexibility, but the inner strength and awareness you can gain from a yoga practice are more valuable in the long run.
